Commissioner Maher outlines department priorities, announces deputy commissioner selection

Commissioner Ryan Maher delivered the commissioner's report at the March 7 meeting, describing recent advocacy, strategic‑plan work, literacy investments and personnel changes.

Maher said he and department staff testified in support of LB 11, which funds the Nebraska Statewide Workforce and Educational Reporting System (NSIRS), and he thanked the executive committee for aligning with the recommendation. He described outreach to educators statewide, appearances at the Educators Rising State Conference and planned talks with health‑occupation students in Omaha.

On literacy, Maher said the legislature appropriated $1,800,000 per year for three years to support literacy coaching and that the department has published an educator preparation guide to implementing the science of reading. He said the department is working with ESUs and other partners to hire coaches and plan a summer coaching workshop.

Personnel: Maher announced the conclusion of deputy commissioner interviews and said he selected and offered the deputy commissioner position to Jane Stavem, noting Stavem’s experience as a teacher, elementary principal and superintendent in multiple districts, including recent service in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Why it matters: The announced deputy commissioner selection and literacy funding signal leadership and program priorities at the Nebraska Department of Education. The literacy appropriation will be a multi‑year investment in coaching statewide.

What’s next: The appointment to deputy commissioner was placed on the consent agenda for a later vote; the literacy activities and NSIRS testimony will continue as the legislative session progresses.